2nd gen IS vs 08 CTS
01-01-08, 06:28 PM
#1
2nd gen IS vs 08 CTS
Before I settled on the IS350 (took delivery 2 weeks ago), I seriously considered the 08 Cadillac CTS. I was impressed with the exterior sheetmetal, the interior redesign and the tech/entertainment package available.
I never thought I would come close to considereing a GM product (ZR-1 maybe?
), but I actually went to the local dealership for a test drive. I drove a loaded version with the Northstar Direct Injection engine. It was roomy and comfortable and the interior a VAST improvement over the previous generation CTS. Great back seat and huge trunk. Good power and predictable road manners. There was, however, some noticeable wind/tire noise on the highway at 65mph.
I was most impressed with the retractable, touchscreen Navi/Infotainment module. Can't remember, but I think the Navi system allowed for use "on the fly" (no lock-out while moving
).
A big concern with the CTS came after I spent a few weeks on a Cadillac owners online forum. A lot of folks showed much love for their car (as would be expected) but there were some recurring, lengthy threads highlighting some significant issues with build quality (steering wheel shimmy attributable to a rear drivetrain manufacturing defect?) and corporate customer service with this most recent model.
In the end, my decision was pretty easy. For my needs and wants, the IS fit like a glove. The exterior was sexier and the interior of higher quality. It struck a perfect ratio of sport and luxury. The engine had tremendous thrust and I felt much more "in touch" and in control with the IS. The Levinson audio sounded superior to the Caddy's Bose system (tested the same CDs in each car). Throw in Lexus quality and resale and the deal was sealed.
Now if they would only do something about the Navi nannies
.
Did anyone else consider the CTS before getting the Lexus? Any comparison thoughts?
I never thought I would come close to considereing a GM product (ZR-1 maybe?
), but I actually went to the local dealership for a test drive. I drove a loaded version with the Northstar Direct Injection engine. It was roomy and comfortable and the interior a VAST improvement over the previous generation CTS. Great back seat and huge trunk. Good power and predictable road manners. There was, however, some noticeable wind/tire noise on the highway at 65mph.I was most impressed with the retractable, touchscreen Navi/Infotainment module. Can't remember, but I think the Navi system allowed for use "on the fly" (no lock-out while moving
).A big concern with the CTS came after I spent a few weeks on a Cadillac owners online forum. A lot of folks showed much love for their car (as would be expected) but there were some recurring, lengthy threads highlighting some significant issues with build quality (steering wheel shimmy attributable to a rear drivetrain manufacturing defect?) and corporate customer service with this most recent model.
In the end, my decision was pretty easy. For my needs and wants, the IS fit like a glove. The exterior was sexier and the interior of higher quality. It struck a perfect ratio of sport and luxury. The engine had tremendous thrust and I felt much more "in touch" and in control with the IS. The Levinson audio sounded superior to the Caddy's Bose system (tested the same CDs in each car). Throw in Lexus quality and resale and the deal was sealed.
Now if they would only do something about the Navi nannies
.Did anyone else consider the CTS before getting the Lexus? Any comparison thoughts?
01-01-08, 06:51 PM
#2
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The CTS is pretty badass, and if it had been out earlier, and I didn't work for who I do, I would've seriously considered it. The new C-Class too.
01-01-08, 08:13 PM
#6
Test drove the 08 CTS, 335, c350, g37 and the g35... In my mind the 08 Lexus is350 was the clear choice. My only concern with the Lexus was headroom, I'm 6'5", but it fit like a glove.
The CTS did not have bluetooth or back up camera. But I liked the idea of a 40 gig HD in the dash. Plus the lexus is quite a bit faster!
Thought I would have liked the 335 more, like the driving dynamics but not the interior. Felt the is350 had the best balance for me...
The CTS did not have bluetooth or back up camera. But I liked the idea of a 40 gig HD in the dash. Plus the lexus is quite a bit faster!
Thought I would have liked the 335 more, like the driving dynamics but not the interior. Felt the is350 had the best balance for me...
01-01-08, 08:54 PM
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01-01-08, 09:09 PM
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01-02-08, 04:31 AM
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www.cadillacforums.com is your best source.
Resale value of the CTS is below the industry average for its class. Haven't seen the ALG ratings for the 08 CTS but I don't expect much improvement.
01-02-08, 09:32 AM
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I would have considered the CTS, but the old model was still out when I bought my IS. The rear design of the CTS is the only negative IMO. It looks too much like the previous model.
01-02-08, 10:04 AM
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I definitely think the CTS is a step in the right direction for GM. I still think GM quality is suspect however. I havent driven the CTS, but I hear good things. Based on brand reputation and design, I'd take the Lexus.